What causes anemia and shortness of breath? 15 possible conditions

See a list of possible causes in order from the most common to the least.

Iron-deficiency anemia is the most common type of anemia, which occurs when the body does not have enough of the mineral iron. The body needs iron to produce hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to the body's tissues...

Thalassemia is an inherited blood disorder that results in excessive destruction of red blood cells (anemia). Symptoms depend on its severity, and can range from minor anemia to enlargement of organs or fetal death.

Pernicious anemia (PA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body fails to make enough healthy red blood cells (RBCs), resulting in vitamin B-12 deficiency. Most people experience a burning or sore tongue.

Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that affects plasma cells, which are the white blood cells that make antibodies. Multiple myeloma causes groups of abnormal plasma cells to accumulate in the bones, which can lead t...

Sickle cell anemia is a genetic disease that causes red blood cells to have an abnormal shape, causing blood flow problems. This can lead to tissue damage and pain, as well as enlarged spleen, anemia, and other symptoms.

This condition is considered a medical emergency. Urgent care may be required.

The aorta is a large artery that carries blood out of your heart. If you experience a dissection of the aorta, it means that blood has entered the wall of the artery, between the inner and middle layers. This can happe...

This condition is considered a medical emergency. Urgent care may be required.

Hypovolemic shock is a life-threatening condition that results when you lose more than 20 percent (one-fifth) of your body's blood or fluid supply. This severe fluid loss makes it impossible for the heart to pum...

Graft vs. Host Disease is a common reaction that develops after an allogeneic bone marrow transplant. It usually goes away after the transplant has become established. It causes symptoms throughout the body's systems.

Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria is a rare disorder that causes red blood cells to break down sooner than normal. This can lead to symptoms that range from minimal (urine discoloration) to severe (stroke).

Polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory disorder that causes pain and stiffness in various parts of the body, including the shoulders, neck, arms, thighs, and hips. The cause of this disorder is unknown.

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